Framed Beach Prints Australia: How to Choose the Perfect Size and Frame

I've had a lot of people ask me how to pick the right size print or which frame works best for their space. It's actually the question I get more than any other, and I get it. You're spending good money on something that's going to live on your wall for years, so you want to get it right.

The thing is, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. A print that looks perfect above a king bed will disappear above a small hallway console. And the frame that works in a minimal Scandi apartment might feel wrong in a cosy beach shack. So let me walk you through how I think about size and framing, based on what I've learned from shooting and selling coastal prints across Australia for the past few years.

Start With Your Wall Space, Not Your Wishlist

Before you fall in love with a specific print, measure your wall. I know that sounds obvious, but most people skip this step and just guess. Grab a tape measure and work out how much space you're actually working with.

Here's a rough guide I give people. For a spot above a couch or bed, aim for your print to be around two-thirds to three-quarters the width of the furniture. So if your couch is 2 metres wide, you're looking at something around 120-150cm. That usually means an XL print like Point Addis Art Print I, or even an EPIC if you've got the space and the budget. For smaller walls, like a hallway or above a side table, an S or M size works better. You can check all the exact dimensions on my size guide page.

If you're still not sure, cut out a piece of newspaper or tape up some A4 pages to the rough dimensions and stick them on the wall. It sounds daggy but it works.

Framed vs Unframed: What Actually Looks Better?

Unframed prints are cheaper and they're great if you want to do your own thing with custom framing. But honestly, most people go framed, and for good reason. A good frame makes the print feel finished and gallery-ready. You can hang it straight out of the box.

I offer a few different frame options. The classic framed print is clean and simple, perfect if you want the focus on the image. The framed canvas has a bit more texture and depth. And if you really want the print to pop off the wall, the shadow box options give you that floating effect, especially the premium shadow box with Tru Vue glass, which cuts down glare like nothing else.

All my frames are made from FSC certified timber, which just means the wood comes from responsibly managed forests. It's a small thing, but it matters.

Match the Frame to Your Space, Not Just the Print

The print might be a moody shot of Bells Beach, but if your living room is all white walls and light timber, a chunky dark frame might feel off. I'm not saying you need to match your existing frames exactly, but think about the overall vibe.

Natural timber frames work almost anywhere. They're warm without being heavy, and they suit both modern and coastal interiors. Black frames are sharp and contemporary. White frames feel clean and beachy, especially with prints that have a lot of blue and turquoise in them.

If you're putting up multiple prints as a gallery wall, keep the frames consistent. It ties everything together without making it feel too matchy.

Bigger Is Usually Better (If You Have the Space)

I'll be honest. Most people wish they'd gone bigger. I've never had someone tell me their print was too large, but I've had plenty of people come back and size up on their second order.

Large prints have impact. They fill a wall, they become a focal point, and they let you actually see the detail in the shot. When I'm out shooting at dawn at Point Roadknight or up at Port Douglas, I'm capturing those textures and colours because I want people to feel like they're there. You lose that on a tiny print.

The EPIC size is 1.5 metres wide, and it's big. Really big. But if you've got a blank wall in a living room or a hallway that needs some life, it's the one that stops people in their tracks.

Take the Coast Home

Every print I sell is one I've shot myself, at a place I know and love. Whether it's the Surf Coast, the Bellarine, the Gold Coast or up in Port Douglas, these aren't random stock images. They're my favourite breaks, my favourite light, my favourite memories.

All prints are made to order here in Victoria, framed with sustainably sourced timber, and shipped free anywhere in Australia. They arrive ready to hang, so you can get them on the wall the day they show up.

FAQ

What size wall art should I get for a living room?

For most living rooms, an L, XL or EPIC size works best, especially if you're hanging above a couch. Aim for the print to be around two-thirds the width of your furniture so it doesn't look lost on the wall. If you've got a really large blank wall, the EPIC size at 1.5 metres wide creates serious impact.

What is the difference between framed prints and canvas prints?

Framed prints are printed on high-quality paper and set behind glass in a timber frame, giving you sharp detail and a classic gallery look. Canvas prints are printed on textured canvas material and wrapped around a frame, so there's no glass and the finish has more depth and texture. Both look great, it just depends on the style you prefer.

Should I get framed or unframed beach prints?

Framed prints arrive ready to hang and look polished straight out of the box, which is why most people choose them. Unframed prints are a good option if you want to arrange your own custom framing or you're on a tighter budget. Just keep in mind you'll need to organise framing separately if you go unframed.

Do you ship framed prints Australia wide?

Yes, all prints including framed options ship free anywhere in Australia. They're printed and framed to order in Victoria, packaged carefully, and sent out ready to hang. I don't offer international shipping or local pickup at this stage.

If you're still not sure what size or frame to go with, feel free to reach out. I'm always happy to help.